15 Facts About Esther Mcvey

Early Life and Education

Esther McVey's journey began in Liverpool, where she faced early challenges that shaped her perspective on life and politics.

1. Early Life and Foster Care
   Born to young Irish Catholic parents, McVey spent her first two years in foster care with Barnardo’s before reuniting with her biological family. This experience influenced her views on social mobility and opportunity.

2. Education
   McVey attended The Belvedere School, a private institution, before studying at Queen Mary University of London and City, University of London. Her education in law and journalism laid the groundwork for her future careers.

Media Career

Before entering politics, McVey made a name for herself in the media industry, showcasing her versatility and talent.

3. Media Career
   After university, McVey returned to her family's construction business while pursuing a postgraduate course in radio journalism. She co-presented the summer holiday Children's BBC strand "But First This" in 1991 and worked on various programs like "GMTV," "How Do They Do That?," and "The Heaven and Earth Show."

4. Business Ventures
   McVey founded Making It (UK) Ltd, a company providing training for small and medium-sized enterprises. She also created Winning Women, a venture supported by the North West Regional Development Agency to help startups.

Political Career

McVey transitioned from media to politics, where she held several significant roles within the Conservative Party.

5. Political Career
   McVey entered the House of Commons as MP for Wirral West in 2010. She served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Disabled People from 2012 to 2013 and as Minister of State for Employment from 2013 to 2015.

6. Cabinet Roles
   Sworn into the Privy Council in 2014, McVey attended Cabinet meetings after that year's reshuffle. She served as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in 2018, resigning later that year over Theresa May’s Brexit deal. She also held roles as Minister of State for Housing and Planning and Minister of State without Portfolio.

Controversies and Resignations

McVey's political career has not been without its share of controversies and challenges.

7. Universal Credit Controversy
   As Work and Pensions Secretary, McVey faced criticism for her handling of the Universal Credit program. Accused of misleading the House of Commons about a National Audit Office report, she faced calls for her resignation.

8. Brexit Resignation
   McVey resigned in November 2018, opposing Theresa May’s Brexit deal. Her resignation letter criticized the deal for not honoring the referendum result.

Leadership and Personal Life

Despite controversies, McVey remains a prominent figure in British politics and media.

9. Conservative Leadership Contest
   In June 2019, McVey entered the Conservative Party leadership contest but was eliminated in the first round with nine votes. She continued to serve in various cabinet roles despite this setback.

10. Personal Life
    McVey lives in Cheshire within her Tatton constituency. She was previously in relationships with BBC producer Mal Young and former Conservative frontbencher Ed Vaizey. In July 2018, it was reported that she and Philip Davies, a Conservative colleague, were partners. They later got engaged and married in a private ceremony at Westminster in September 2020.

Return to Media and Public Perception

McVey's return to media and public perception highlights her multifaceted career.

11. Media Return
    In 2021, McVey joined GB News to present a weekly show titled "Saturday Morning with Esther and Phillip" alongside her husband. The couple also presented another show on Friday, titled "Friday Morning with Esther and Phillip," until a schedule shakeup in September 2022.

12. Impartiality Controversy
    In September 2023, Ofcom announced that GB News had breached impartiality rules during an interview that McVey and Davies carried out with Jeremy Hunt on their Saturday morning show earlier that year. This incident highlighted ongoing concerns about media impartiality and political influence.

Public Perception and Legacy

McVey's legacy is shaped by both her achievements and the controversies she has faced.

13. Public Perception
    McVey is a polarizing figure, with some viewing her as a hardworking individual with a firm stance on poverty, while others accuse her of turning her back on the underprivileged. Her background as a foster child and her rise to prominence have made her a subject of both admiration and criticism.

14. Controversial Policies
    McVey has been associated with several controversial policies, particularly those related to welfare and poverty. Critics argue that her policies, such as those affecting Universal Credit, have exacerbated poverty and financial difficulties for many individuals. The National Audit Office has highlighted significant issues with the UC system, including delayed payments and financial difficulties for claimants.

15. Legacy and Impact
    Despite the controversies surrounding her tenure, McVey remains a significant figure in British politics. Her personal story of overcoming adversity and achieving success has inspired many, although her policies have been divisive. As she continues to serve in various roles within the Conservative Party, her legacy will be shaped by both her achievements and the criticisms she has faced.

Esther McVey: A Life of Resilience and Controversy

Esther McVey's journey from foster care to a prominent political figure showcases her resilience and determination. Her career spans media, business, and politics, making her a multifaceted personality. Serving in various cabinet roles, including Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, McVey faced both praise and criticism. Her handling of Universal Credit and her stance on Brexit were particularly contentious. Despite controversies, she remains influential within the Conservative Party. McVey's personal life, including her marriage to Philip Davies and her return to media with GB News, adds another layer to her public persona. Whether admired or criticized, her impact on British politics is undeniable. Her story is one of overcoming adversity and achieving success, leaving a lasting mark on the political landscape.